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Walk, Hike, Bike and History
May 31, 2024 through November 9, 2024
IDNR's State Historic Sites in Springfield invite you to check out our popular Walk, Hike and Bike History programs, returning again in 2024. Walk, Hike and Bike History is a series of inspiring outdoor experiences that connect you to "must-see" museums and monuments in the capital city. Guided by history education interpreters from IDNR's Office of Land Management, Walk, Hike and Bike History experiences range in duration from one to two hours. Reservations, which will be required, can be made on the IDNR website. All experiences will be limited in capacity per current guidelines outlined by the Illinois Department of Public Health. All experiences are free and donations are appreciated.
2024 Walk, Hike and Bike History events will run from May 31 through November 9. The schedule for these events and sign up links can be found below.
| Day | Time | Experience | Meeting Location | Make a Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wednesday |
9:30 AM |
1908 Race Riot Walking Tour |
Lincoln Statue, 6th and Adams Streets |
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Wednesday |
1:30 PM |
Underground Railroad Walk |
Lincoln Home Visitor Center |
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Thursday |
1:00 PM |
5-Mile Bike Tour |
Dana-Thomas House Front Door (4th and Lawrence) |
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|
Thursday |
1:30 PM |
Friends of Lincoln Hike |
Lincoln Tomb Parking Lot |
|
|
Friday |
1:30 PM |
20th Century Black Leaders Hike |
Lincoln Tomb Parking Lot |
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|
Saturday |
9:30 AM |
1908 Race Riot Walking Tour |
Lincoln Statue at 6th and Adams Streets |
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|
Saturday |
1:30 PM |
Black History Walk |
Lincoln Tomb Parking Lot |
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|
Sunday |
1:30 PM |
A Stroll With Old Bob |
Lincoln Home Visitor Center |
Walk, Hike and Bike History Experiences
- 1908 Race Riot Walking Tour - Walk downtown Springfield streets with a guide and learn about a summer weekend in 1908 when violent mobs terrorized Springfield’s African American citizens. We will share stories not only of hatred and devastation but of courage and resilience in the face of concerted attack. The 1.5-mile walking tour takes a little over one hour. Meet at the Lincoln Statues on Adams Street Plaza.
- Underground Railroad Walk - This 45-minute, 1-mile walking tour explores several locations throughout Springfield which hold a special significance to the Underground Railroad. This tour includes visits to the Old State Capitol and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and explores other lesser-known locations around the city. Each stop details Springfield’s importance to the Underground Railroad and the historical figures associated with them. Meet outside the Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
- 5-Mile Bike Tour - Ride your own bicycle following a guide on a casual and easy paced bicycle tour of historic sites in the capital city. This neighborhood-style ride will go past historic sites including the Dana-Thomas House, First Black Fires House, Lincoln Home, Old State Capitol, and others. Information will be provided at stops along the route. The five-mile round trip ride will take about 1 ½ hours. Helmets are required and a water bottle is recommended. Meet at the front door of the Dana-Thomas House on Lawrence Avenue.
- Friends of Lincoln Hike - This 90-minute hike through the beautiful hills of Oak Ridge Cemetery will pass by the graves of several Abraham Lincoln’s friends, neighbors, and political associates. At each stop, we will talk about the person’s life and highlight their interactions with the 16th president. Comfortable shoes and water recommended. Meet at the Lincoln Tomb Parking Lot.
- 20th Century Black Leaders Hike - In the shadow of the 1908 Race Riot, Springfield's Black community persevered, establishing business, participating in politics, and organizing school and charities. Facing racism and violence, early Black leaders in Springfield created opportunities for future generations. Join us to hear stories of the men and women who uplifted their families and communities and dedicated their lives to make Springfield a better place for all. Meet at the Lincoln Tomb Parking Lot.
- Black History Walk - This 90-minute walk through Oak Ridge Cemetery focuses on the history of Springfield’s Black community, discussing great tragedies as well as stories of success in the face of severe adversity and prejudice. Water and hiking shoes recommended. Presented with the Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum. Meet at the Lincoln Tomb Parking Lot.
- A Stroll With Old Bob - Experience the life of Abraham Lincoln through the eyes of his faithful horse, Old Bob. Old Bob joined Lincoln on journeys to the Governor's Mansion and around the state with the 8th Illinois Circuit. He witnessed all the antics of the Lincoln boys and Abraham's patent invention to buoy vessels over shoals. Join us for the familiar walk that Lincoln took to work each day and hear Old Bob's stories about Abraham Lincoln, his family, and Springfield. This program is best suited for families with children aged 1-10. Meet outside the Lincoln Home Visitor Center.
